December is shaping up to be a crucial month for pensioners, with the final state pension payments of 2024 arriving soon. The DWP has outlined key dates that could impact when you receive your money. But which payments are involved, and when should you expect them?
DWP Announces Final State Pension Payments for 2024: Key Dates for Six Crucial Payouts to Know
By Arezki AMIRI
Published on 10 December 2024 07:30
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the dates for the final state pension payments of 2024. A total of £1,369 will be deposited into pensioners' bank accounts across six payments this December. The maximum state pension for 2024 is £221.20 per week, which totals approximately £11,502 annually. This is the new full state pension, though the amount received can vary depending on National Insurance contributions.
The state pension in the UK is a vital financial support for retirees, and with the December payment coming up, it's essential for pensioners to stay informed about the exact payment schedule. The DWP has outlined key dates, alongside other related benefits, ensuring recipients know when to expect their payments.
A Crucial December for Pensioners
Pensioners and those receiving state pensions should take note of six key dates this December, including the early Christmas pension payment on 1st December. This special payment, which does not affect any other benefits, is worth £10 and is available to those receiving certain benefits such as Pension Credit, Carer’s Allowance, and PIP.
- Christmas Payment: Worth £10, this tax-free bonus is issued to eligible recipients, helping pensioners cover the extra costs often associated with the holiday season.
- The Christmas bonus is traditionally paid during the first week of December, and it does not impact other benefits or tax credits.
Key Dates for December 2024:
- 1st December: DWP Christmas bonus (£10) and Winter Fuel Payments begin.
- 21st December: Last chance to apply for Pension Credit to be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments.
- 24th and 31st December: Payments will be made early if the scheduled payment date falls on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.
Other Significant Social Payments in December
Several other key payments will be made in December to support pensioners and those in need of assistance, including the Winter Fuel Payment, Weather Payments, and the Warm Home Discount. These payments can be particularly helpful for managing the increased costs of heating during the cold months.
Major Social Benefits:
- Winter Fuel Payments: Starting from 1st December, these payments are available to anyone born on or before 22nd September 1958. To qualify, the claimant must also receive Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits.
- Eligibility: Pensioners receiving Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Income Support.
- Amount: This is a tax-free sum to assist with heating costs during the winter.
- Weather Payments: Triggered when temperatures dip below freezing for seven consecutive days. Payments of £25 are made to eligible recipients.
- Eligibility: People receiving Pension Credit, Income Support, Jobseekers Allowance, or Universal Credit.
- Warm Home Discount Scheme: This £150 discount on electricity bills is automatically given to those on the guarantee element of Pension Credit.
- Automatic eligibility: For pensioners and low-income households who meet the criteria.
- Discount details: The discount is applied to electricity bills for eligible households during the winter period.
Regular Benefit Payments
All other regular benefit payments will be made as usual in December, unless the scheduled payment date falls on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, in which case the payment will be made a day earlier, on 24th December or 31st December.